Celebrated Illustrator Bernie Wrightson Dies at 68

Bernie Wrightson, a comic book industry vet and celebrated illustrator, died on March 18. The artist was vastly influential for generations of illustrators, cited for his elaborate line work and absorbing detail. Wrightson was legend in the horror genre, in particular, mixing both the beautiful and the unsettling in his pen and brush work. Shown are images from his revered “Bernie Wrightson’s Frankenstein” collection, adapting the classic Mary Shelley novel.

Several artists and pop culture figure took to social media to share tributes to Wrightson. Hi-Fructose Magazine co-founder Attaboy called the artist “a modern pop culture Doré, a master craftsman, and a humble innovator.” Acclaimed film director and writer Guillermo del Toro called the artist called Wrightson “my North dark story of youth. A master.” Del Toro then said he would not be posting on Twitter for the next 24 hours in order to honor the “greatest Gothic artist of all.” See reactions from others below.

RIP Bernie Wrightson: There were giants in those days. 1991, when all the world was young. (L to R, Frank, me, Bill, Bernie and Dave.) pic.twitter.com/ExVrRjjjm6